Dreaming big pays off for ward of the Maxfield Park Children’s Home
WHEN TRENIEL Lowe turned 18, he wasn’t sure what his next move would be. Having been under the guardianship of the Maxfield Park Children’s Home, a facility of the Child Development Agency (CDA), since age two, the realisation that he would soon be 19 and, therefore, no longer a ward of the CDA, left a looming question mark. This was where Sterling Asset Management intervened.
With seven CSEC grade ones and twos under his belt, Treniel had enrolled in the College of Agriculture, Science and Education to pursue an associate of science degree. His long-term goal was to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality and tourism at the University of Technology, but without the financial backing of the CDA, this seemed impossible. In stepped Sterling Asset Management which, through its ongoing relationship with Maxfield Park, offered him a full scholarship for the tenure of his degree.
This is the second scholarship, inclusive of tuition, fees, books, and accommodation that Sterling has given to a ward of the Maxfield Park Children’s Home.
“[Sterling has] supported [the wards of Maxfield Park] in pursuing their academic dreams at the university level,” said Kevin Richards, VP of sales and marketing at Sterling. The first recipient was Damian Harris, who received assistance to resit his CSEC English examination and then pursue his university degree. Damian has since joined the staff at Sterling as an operations officer.
Both former wards are Rotarians who have been actively involved in the club and in their community, proof that being a charitable person pays off. Treniel attributes his active involvement in the community to his time at Maxfield Park. “For me, it was like growing up in a regular home, or even better in some instances because as a ward of the State, I was afforded certain privileges and opportunities,” he said. Treniel was the first child advocate on the Children’s Advisory Panel, as well as a Swim Jamaica athlete, basketball player, and award-winning debater.
He describes himself as a person who is “assertive, with positive leadership and strong interpersonal skills, responsible, and committed to defying all odds and reaching the highest goals possible”.
His scholarship from Sterling will help him to overcome a major financial hurdle and reach those lofty goals. “Five years from now, I see myself as the food and beverage manager in one of the hotels along the north coast, with intentions of being the general manager,” Treniel declared.
Sterling is dedicated to assisting those who dare to dream big. “We have always provided assistance in the area of education, and Treniel has shown dedication over the years with his aim of matriculating to the university level and we are happy to support him,” said Richards.